Common Signaling Method and Apparatus

1. A method of communication, the method comprising the steps of: scanning a plurality of radio frequencies for a master beacon signal; receiving the master beacon signal that includes a list of radio frequencies; scanning the list of radio frequencies for an unused radio frequency; transmitting a signal on the unused radio frequency; transmitting a local beacon signal; periodically scanning the plurality of radio frequencies for the master beacon signal; detecting the master beacon signal; ceasing transmission when a priority signal is included in the master beacon signal; monitoring the master beacon signal; and transmitting when the priority signal is absent in the master beacon signal.

2. A method of communication, the method comprising the steps of: scanning a plurality of radio frequencies for a master beacon signal; failing to detect the master beacon signal; scanning the plurality of radio frequencies for an unused radio frequency; transmitting a signal on the unused radio frequency; transmitting a local beacon signal; periodically scanning the plurality of radio frequencies for the master beacon signal; detecting the master beacon signal; ceasing transmission when a priority signal is included in the master beacon signal; monitoring the master beacon signal; and transmitting when the priority signal is absent in the master beacon signal.